My biggest issue with @TeamYouTube random thumbnail generation is
1. It’s just that, random
2. It’s always low resolution
3. Thumbnail allow us to elaborate on title.
I DO however like the fact it can stop the stupid clickbaity thumbnails
Notification is always courteous, and courtesy is always a good choice. As far as asking goes, they don't need to. The final say on marketing is with the publisher, not the author. Also if I never see Linus making a shocked face again, it'll still be too soon.